Tupelo doctor recounts experience bicycling Underground Railroad

TUPELO, MISS. (WCBI) – A Tupelo physician said his experience bicycling along the Underground Railroad made a lasting impact on his life.

Doctor Mark Shepherd was the guest speaker for the monthly meeting of “Mission Mississippi.” He recounted his journey along the Underground Railroad that he made on a bicycle, in three stages.

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The Underground Railroad was a network of secret routes and safe houses used by African American slaves to escape into free states and Canada.

Doctor Shepherd said the experience showed him the importance of individuals working together.

The pastor of the host church for the meeting, Bishop Clarence Parks said it’s vital for people to know the history of the Underground Railroad.

“It wasn’t just a set area, it was in different places where people were actually, hidden but yet, it was an avenue for people to be free. Sometimes if you’re not careful, you end up repeating the bad things if you don’t know your history,” said Pastor Parks.

Mission Mississippi brings Christians together to build relationships across racial and denominational lines.